Your boat is a significant investment, so of course you want to protect it and extend its lifespan. How can you do this? Your boat’s running gear is at nearly constant risk of a run-in with something in the water. Even the best captains often take damage to their vessels and have to get boat repair in Fort Lauderdale, FL.

Still, there are steps you can take to minimize risk and reduce damages. To keep your boat seaworthy, use the following tips that will help protect your boat’s running gear:

Check: If you strike something while boating, always check for leaks afterwards. Look carefully at your inboard around the rudder seal and prop shaft. If you discover any leaks, plug them as well as you can, put everyone aboard in life jackets and get to shore as soon and as carefully as possible. Then, contact a professional for boat repair in Fort Lauderdale, FL.

Listen: Is your boat making unusual noises? As you head to sea, listen for any odd noises or vibrations. If these occur, do not proceed with your excursion—these are often signs of a bent propeller or prop shaft. If you continue using your boat, you will cause additional damage and require more extensive boat repair in Fort Lauderdale, FL. Instead, slow down and proceed back to shore. If your boat has multiple engines, you can shut down one at a time to see which one is making the noise, then use the other to get home.

Inspect: Examine your running gear before and after each journey onto the water, as well as after any collisions with objects. Pull the outboard up to check for cracks or mangled propellers. Use snorkel gear to get in the water and inspect inboard running gear. If it’s too cold to get in the water, carry a waterproof camera with an extension pole when you go boating to use for inspections if needed. If your inspection reveals serious damage, call for a tow. Lower your anchor to remain safely in place until help arrives.

Proceed: If you experience a minor collision in the water but are confident your boat has not suffered any damage, proceed with caution. It can be hard to discern a damaged rudder or prop hub with a visual inspection. You may not realize this damage has occurred until you suffer poor steering control or sudden propulsion loss. After an incident, always power up slowly and accelerate gradually, testing all controls and operations as you go. This will help you determine if your boat is really damage-free or if it needs boat repair in Fort Lauderdale, FL.

Call for backup

If you suspect your boat needs attention, don’t hesitate to call for backup. Getting the right boat repair in Fort Lauderdale, FL can prevent further damage and help extend the life of your boat. For expert consultation and repairs, contact the professionals at Starboard Yacht Group LLC. We offer the right information, the right parts and the right employees to maintain your vessel to its highest degree of safety and functionality. Call us today!